Clad in yellow T-shirts, children leading the way and three groups distinguished by large banners at the forefront, at least a thousand individuals (likely around 1,500) gathered at Play Brava. This situation is attributed primarily to the underwater emissary but also significantly to the overcapacity of the regional treatment facility, which is insufficient for La Orotava, Los Realejos, parts of Santa Úrsula, and the municipality that houses it. While other factors contribute to the issue, the reality is that Playa Jardín remains closed. Doubts are rising over whether it will open before or during the summer, a claim local authorities assert amidst a skeptical outlook from residents, nearby inhabitants, and various organisations. Many made it clear this afternoon that their faith has waned and they are exasperated. Thus, it was no surprise that one of the slogans most frequently repeated today in the demonstration convened by the Stop collective Punta Brava was “we want solutions, no more meetings.”
Initially, approximately 300 people gathered before noon (according to the National Police) at Martiánez beach, located at the opposite end of the port, which served as the starting point for the protest. It appeared that the turnout might be modest, but soon, while already on the initial route adjacent to Lake Martiánez, the numbers began to grow as they passed through San Telmo. It became apparent to the officers that the crowd had swelled to at least one thousand individuals.
The demonstration was led by a group of children arranged in two lines, all wearing yellow shirts. Among the various slogans, a prominent banner read “the sea is life, it is not a landfill.” Many others were present as well, including one that proclaimed “for a clean sea, no more spills” in the second group of the march, which resonated with chants demanding, “stop the spills, we want a clean sea.” The third group comprised protesters from various other causes, who, under a banner advocating for the preservation of youth, chanted enduring phrases such as “the Canary Islands are not for sale; we love and defend them.”
Children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly, many adorned in yellow shirts with messages against spills, urged onlookers to not merely watch but to join their cause during the march. However, they faced challenges largely due to the crowds of tourists, especially in areas such as Avenida del Lago Martiánez, San Telmo, and the dock area. Nevertheless, the march left a significant impression on the visitors, influencing the impressions they would take back to their home countries.
First major halt, by the City Council
Upon reaching the City Council, adjacent to the entrance of the Social Welfare Department, some of the protest organisers, all women, including the Vice President of Stop Vertidos, Carmen Padilla, took the opportunity to voice their slogans and messages towards the politicians willing to listen via megaphone. They paid special attention (even using some placards) to the insular councillor of the natural environment, Blanca Pérez, who has stated that the beach cannot reopen before or during the summer, or at least that timeframe has never been endorsed by her government.
The former mayor, Marco González, joined shortly before reaching the dock, and throughout the march, other PSOE councillors were visible, alongside former IU representatives, engaged Punta Brava locals, and numerous outraged individuals, as this protest made it clear that no party was exempt from criticism, and immediate results were demanded from all. Indeed, some signs and chants clearly expressed sentiments like “the strips are not the solution,” “this beach is a disgrace,” and “the end is here for Garden beach,” along with the classic “hands up, this is a robbery” and “corrupt politicians, out of our beaches.” Many of these were adapted as canarian improvised refrains that resonated as they travelled through Ranilla and other parts of the route, notably the musically enhanced “the beaches where I was born.”
This moment occurred at 1:45 near Playa Jardín, where chants were reiterated or enriched (“Garden beach, endless rubbish”), and even songs were amplified by megaphone in response to the situation, as the manifesto prepared for this occasion was read aloud, which we now share:
“Dear neighbours, friends, and citizens in general.
Today we gather here, in this civic march, to raise our voices in defence of a shared resource that belongs to us all: our sea, our beaches, and especially, Playa Jardín. This significant location is currently facing a critical situation due to untreated sewage discharges from the entire La Orotava Valley. It is an example of failed and misguided political action that disregards the public interest; Punta Brava and Playa Jardín are mere symbols of incompetence and failure.
Enough of pollution!
We cannot remain passive while our beach, which represents our identity and heritage, is under threat. Wastewater discharges not only compromise water quality but also jeopardise the health of those who utilise this space. Sea pollution is not only an environmental issue; it is a matter of public health, well-being, and our future. With each passing day without a resolution, we permit our community and environment to bear the repercussions of neglect.
A call to action
Today, we urge local, insular, and regional authorities to take prompt and effective action. We insist on the establishment of an adequate treatment system that ensures the waters returned to the sea are safe and clean. We cannot permit the absence of infrastructure, administrative oversight, and political incompetence to continue harming our environment.
Unity is strength
We are here because we believe in the power of community. Together, we can enact change. Each of us has a role in the preservation of our environment. From environmental education to proactive involvement in decision-making, every action matters. Today, we raise our voices not just for ourselves, but for future generations who deserve to enjoy a clean and healthy sea.
A sustainable future
Imagine a future where sustainability and respect for the environment are standard practice, not exceptions. This future is achievable, but it requires our collective effort and unwavering commitment from all.
Commitment to nature
Today, we reaffirm our dedication to nature and our community. We pledge to continue fighting for a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable environment. We will not let apathy and inaction deprive us of what is rightfully ours.
In conclusion, today we are not simply marching through Playa Jardín; we march for our health, our future, and for a commitment to sustainability, the environment, and the right of every individual to enjoy a clean and safe surroundings. Together, we are stronger. Together, we can create change.
For a clean sea! For Playa Jardín! For our community!
Thank you all for being present and for being part of this movement!
